10 Must Have Hiking Essentials
Let's gear up for some awesome hikes in Bend or wherever your adventures take you. Here's a quick and dirty list of must-have hiking gear:
- Comfy Kicks: Invest in a pair of sturdy, comfy hiking boots. Your feet will thank you after a long trek.
- Backpack Love: Get a backpack that's like a second skin. Look for one with padded straps and enough room for snacks, water, and maybe a spare pair of socks.
- Techie Trekking: Embrace the digital age with a good GPS app or device. Getting lost is so last season.
- Hydration Station: Stay hydrated with a reliable water filtration situation. This one By Sawyer is the best for drinking whatever water source you're near.
- Layer Up: Dress like an onion. Layers are your best friend, especially in unpredictable Bend weather. I grab my packable arc'terex hooded jacket.
- Snack Attack: Trail mix, energy bars, jerky—keep your energy up with tasty, portable snacks. I like Go Macro Bars and Twizzlers
- Watch the Shine: Pack SPF and reapply often. I use Elta religiously. The zinc formula absorbs quickly with no white cast.
- First Aid Fun: A mini first aid kit is a must. Blisters and scratches happen, be prepared.
- Bug Off: If mosquitoes love you, consider a good insect repellent. It's like a force field against those pesky critters.
- Shady Business: Sunglasses are the secret weapon against the blazing sun. Protect those beautiful eyes! Sunskis polarized glasses are amazing, they have a no-slip nose for when I get sweaty, and little blinders on the side to protect my delicate eye skin.
Remember, the key is comfort and preparedness. Now, go hit those trails like a boss!